Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
Course Handicap Calculation converts a player’s Handicap Index into the strokes needed for a particular set of tees. For 18 holes, the WHS formula is Handicap Index × (Slope Rating ÷ 113) + (Course Rating − par), with the result rounded as required for the relevant handicap purpose.
How it matters in match play
Course Handicap Calculation is the step before a match’s Playing Handicap is set. In a singles match using the WHS recommended 100% allowance, compare the players’ Playing Handicaps: the lower plays from zero and the other receives the difference. The Committee’s Terms should state the allowance and any local procedure.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Course Handicap Calculation |
| Category | handicap |
| Applicable rule | WHS Rule 6.1; WHS Rule 6.2; WHS Appendix C |
| Related concepts | World Handicap System, Handicap Index, Course Handicap, Playing Handicap, Handicap Allowance |
Worked example
Alex has a Handicap Index of 18.0 on tees rated Course Rating 72.0, Slope Rating 125 and par 72: 18.0 × (125 ÷ 113) + (72 − 72) = 19.91, which rounds to a Course Handicap of 20; in a 100% singles match against Ben’s Course Handicap of 14, Ben plays from zero and Alex receives 6 strokes.
Rule reference: WHS Rule 6.1; WHS Rule 6.2; WHS Appendix C
Sources: www.randa.org , www.randa.org , www.usga.org , www.usga.org
Common questions
What is the Course Handicap formula?
For an 18-hole round, Course Handicap = Handicap Index × (Slope Rating ÷ 113) + (Course Rating − par). Use the ratings and par for the tees being played. The WHS formula makes a Handicap Index portable between courses and tees with different difficulty ratings.
Is Course Handicap the same as Playing Handicap?
Not always. Course Handicap describes the strokes needed against the course. Playing Handicap is the number used in the competition after the applicable handicap allowance is applied, then rounded. In a format with a 100% allowance, the two can be the same, subject to the relevant calculation and Terms.
How is Course Handicap used in singles Match Play?
First calculate each player’s Course Handicap and then apply the allowance specified by the competition. Under the WHS recommended 100% singles Match Play allowance, the player with the lower Playing Handicap plays off zero and the other receives the difference between the two Playing Handicaps. Confirm the Terms before play.
Should I round Course Handicap before calculating Playing Handicap?
The WHS guidance says to retain the unrounded Course Handicap for calculating Playing Handicap; the result is then rounded to the nearest whole number. Do not round early unless the specific handicap procedure calls for it, because early rounding can change the final stroke total.
Does the Course Handicap Calculation use par?
Yes. The 18-hole formula adds Course Rating minus par after scaling the Handicap Index by Slope Rating divided by 113. For a tee set where Course Rating equals par, that final adjustment is zero, but the Slope Rating still affects the result.
Is the Course Handicap formula the same for every competition?
The Course Handicap formula is the WHS conversion for the course and tees, but the competition’s Playing Handicap can differ because allowances depend on the format. A Committee or authorised body should state the applicable allowance in the Terms rather than assuming a match or team percentage.